Staying in Cleveland? Why LeBron James could re-sign with Cavaliers

His quote says it all: Cleveland, at 22-4, is winning big. This streak is no regular season fad. With a beefed-up supporting cast and deep bench, the Cavaliers are serious contenders, capable of challenging and even beating the world champion Celtics. The Lakers would be favoured, but a Kobe-LeBron NBA Finals is a toss-up …

Breaking NBA News mixed with analysis …

Our Very Quick Analysis: ‘The King’ likes his kingdom enough to stay. After years of silence, LeBron James finally acknowledged that he could ink a long-term extension this summer with his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers.

“You play out this season of course; I will consider,” James said Saturday before the Cavs practiced at the Pepsi Center. The direction we are headed is everything I expected and more.”(Cleveland.com)

Re-signing means the All-Star forward would relinquish his opt-out rights in July 2010 and not become an unrestricted free agent. This would end the much-discussed James-to-New York conspiracy.

Why, after refusing to address the topic publicly, would James speak up?

His quote says it all: Cleveland, at 22-4, is winning big. This streak is no regular season fad. With a beefed-up supporting cast and deep bench, the Cavaliers are serious contenders, capable of challenging and even beating the world champion Celtics.

The Lakers would be favoured, but a Kobe-LeBron NBA Finals is a toss-up.

James also understands Cleveland is positioned to dominate the Eastern Conference for several seasons. After all, Boston is a much older team. And Detroit, after the Allen Iverson trade, is rebuilding.

James staying home is a real possibility. Christmas arrived early for Cavalier fans.

What do you make of James’ comments? Will he re-sign with Cleveland? Get at us with thoughts in the comment box below and return to HoopsVibe the Blog for tidbits. Photo courtesy of pat2757K.